"Governor Newsom's Plan: 500 Surveillance Cameras Deployed in Oakland to Combat Crime Wave"

California Governor Gavin Newsom has announced the deployment of 500 surveillance cameras in Oakland and surrounding freeways to combat crime, with the cameras capable of identifying and tracking vehicles in real-time. While some view the move as an infringement on privacy and a potential for police abuse, Newsom asserts that the surveillance network will provide law enforcement with the tools to effectively combat criminal activity. The $1.6 million contract with Flock Safety will see nearly 300 cameras deployed on city streets and the remainder on nearby state highways, with footage retained for 28 days and not shared with third parties beyond California law enforcement.